EICMA Opens in Milan

MILAN – Italy’s Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi opened the 63rd Esposizione Internazionale del Motociclo (EICMA) here today. The event, scheduled to feature 1,560 powersports-related companies in 63,785 sq. meters of indoor exhibition space, runs until November 20.
While many powersports manufacturers showed their new models and latest concepts at the Paris Motorcycle Show in October, a number of OEMs and aftermarket firms decided to use Milan for product introductions. Two early morning press conferences were held by Moto Guzzi and Aprilia. Other brands, including Bimota, BMW, Triumph, Derbi, Ducati, Husqvarna, KTM, Kymco, Peugeot, SYM, Suzuki and Triumph followed throughout the day at quick intervals.
Moto Guzzi introduced the new California Vintage, a retro looking 1,064cc 90° V-twin which will be available in the United States next year; Aprilia is showing its SXV and RX V, both powered by the company’s 77° four-stroke V-twin V2 engine; Ducati plans to release its entire 2006 line-up; KTM is introducing a 990 Adventure, massive 950 Super Enduro and a four-stroke, electric-start 250 EXCF – which will enter the U.S. as a 250 XCF; Husqvarna is displaying a complete new range of motocross, minicross, enduro and supermotard models; and Bimota plans to unveil the Delirio, a product of DB5 Mille designer Sergio Robbiano.
Meanwhile, Polaris Industries was having success showing its Revolver, the two-person concept machine that qualifies for off-road street riding in Europe. Polaris showed the machine at the recent Paris show and plans to survey consumers here as well. A decision on whether or not to go forward with the project won’t be made until next Spring, according to a Polaris executive here.
The show features two initial days for journalists and foreign visitors only before going public; doors open to consumers Thursday through Sunday. It’s the first year for the new annual motorcycle show, previously held every two years. Also new is the fact that the motorcycle show has been split off from the bicycle show, which was held in September this year. The shows are the first major events to be held in Milan’s new convention center opened this fall.
Read the December 5 edition of Powersports Business magazine for a complete report from Milan.